Barkala Bird and Nature Tours

Birdwatching and Bushwalks in the Pilliga Forest, north-western NSW.

For beginners and experienced naturalists!

Barkala Farmstay offers luxury bush accommodation and extensive bushwalking tracks in the unique, beautiful and peaceful country where the vast sandy woodlands of the Pilliga meet the foothills of the ancient volcanic Warrumbungle Mountains. Campers and caravans are catered for, meals, refreshments and great coffee are available at the on-site Blue Wren Bush Cafe, and also on-site is NSW’s largest and most unusual working pottery, Pilliga Pottery. A visit to their open studio workshop will fascinate and enthral, with free demonstrations and a huge range of handmade wares.

But back to the birds. Barkala property is home to over 120 bird species, either resident or as regular migrants, including eight threatened species: the Grey-crowned Babbler, Hooded Robin, Speckled Warbler, Brown Treecreeper, Turquoise Parrot, Glossy Black Cockatoo, Diamond Firetail and the Little Lorikeet. Across the Pilliga itself over 200 bird species have been recorded.

The Pilliga has long been recognised as one of the most important areas for biodiversity in eastern Australia. With its diversity of habitats from open forest to heathlands, and its geographical location on the cusp between the wetter coastal band and the dry interior, it offers a wealth of plants, reptiles, birds and mammals, including many marginal and locally endemic species. Barkala Farmstay is adjacent to part of the Pilliga Nature Reserve and close to the Sandstone Caves and the Sculptures in the Scrub (Timmalallie National Park and Special Aboriginal Area).

Early morning Guided Birdwatching Tours are available by arrangement, run by longtime resident artist and keen birdwatcher Julie Squire. Whether you’re after an introduction to the bush and birdwatching, or want to see one of our threatened species in their wild home, Julie knows where the locals hang out. Walks start early and go for two to three hours, and cost $55 for an individual, $80 for a couple, or $35 per person for three or more. You won’t be disappointed.

Book early for Easter or Spring School Holidays to avoid disappointment! New Guided Birdwatching and Nature walks in the Pilliga, northern NSW.

About Ausbird

Ausbird is owned & operated by Sicklebill Safaris, a small family run company based in North Queensland, Australia. Sicklebill Safaris has been operating in the Pacific region for over 20 years. In recent years we have been joined by other excellent guides and offer itineraries to Asia, Africa and the Middle East as well as Australia and the Pacific.

FRITH & FRITH BOOKS

About Ausbird

Ausbird is owned & operated by Sicklebill Safaris, a small family run company based in North Queensland, Australia. Sicklebill Safaris has been operating in the Pacific region for over 20 years. In recent years we have been joined by other excellent guides and offer itineraries to Asia, Africa and the Middle East as well as Australia and the Pacific.

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